What to Look For in a Remote Bookkeeper: A Checklist
What to Look For in a Remote Bookkeeper: A Checklist
The right bookkeeper can save your business thousands — but the wrong one?
They can trigger tax issues, cash flow confusion, and a whole lot of stress.
Here’s your 8-point checklist to evaluate any remote bookkeeping service — plus how BELAY matches up.
1. Verified Experience
Look for 3+ years of business bookkeeping experience. Bonus: industry-specific knowledge (e.g., SaaS, e-commerce, or professional services).
BELAY bookkeepers average over 10 years of professional experience.
2. U.S.-Based Professionals
Working with domestic talent helps with communication, tax compliance, and accountability. Offshore freelancers often cause compliance issues.
BELAY only hires U.S.-based bookkeepers.
3. Security Protocols
Are they using encrypted, cloud-based tools? Do they work inside your accounting system — or outside of it?
BELAY uses secure platforms like QuickBooks Online, BILL, and others.
4. Vetting and Background Checks
Ask: Do they screen bookkeepers before assigning them to clients?
BELAY vets every bookkeeper with multi-step assessments and background checks.
5. Communication Cadence
Will they meet weekly? Monthly? Do you get status updates or just data dumps?
BELAY provides regular updates and clear workflows customized to your cadence.
6. Platform Flexibility
Can they work in your system? Or do they force you into theirs?
BELAY works in your tools — QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero, and more.
7. Industry References
Do they have clients like you? Can they back up their claims?
BELAY has served thousands of businesses — from startups to multi-million dollar enterprises.
8. Human Support Behind the Service
If something goes wrong, is someone accountable?
BELAY gives you access to a dedicated account manager and an entire U.S.-based support team.
Summary: Don’t Settle for Less
Outsourced doesn’t mean risky. It means you get access to pro-level financial control — without hiring full-time.
BELAY checks all 8 boxes, and we’re happy to show you how.
Frequently Asked Questions
What questions should I ask before hiring a bookkeeper?
Ask about security, vetting, tools, communication, and references. Use the 8-point checklist above.
Does BELAY offer a free consultation?
Yes. You can schedule a discovery call to see if BELAY is a fit for your needs.
Final Thought: You Know What to Look For. Now Make It Easy.
You’re not just hiring a bookkeeper — you’re handing over the accuracy, clarity, and stability of your financial foundation.
The 8-point checklist above is designed to protect that. But here’s the truth: Most providers don’t check every box.
BELAY does.
- Experienced, U.S.-based professionals
- Secure, cloud-based tools
- A proven process backed by real references
- Clear communication and dedicated support
We don’t just manage your books. We give you back the clarity to grow confidently, with numbers you can trust.
If you're ready to simplify your financial operations and gain expert support, start with a short discovery call. No pressure. Just clarity.
Book your call today!